This paper, published in 2011, discusses the fact that here has been gradual advancing of first flowering, estimated to be 4.5 days from 1970 to 1999. An analysis performed of one of the region’s most economically important tree species, cherry trees, predicts up to a 29 day acceleration in the timing of cherry blossoms by 2080, with a peak bloom date of March 4. The current Washington, DC, cherry blossom festival runs from March 20 – April 14. The figure in the post shows the changing peak bloom dates advancing.